[Unpad Media Channel] Universitas Padjadjaran has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development by inaugurating a Solar Power Plant (PLTS) in collaboration with PT Empat Mitra Indika Tenaga Surya (EMITS) and receiving a Recycling Machine from PT Bank Central Asia Tbk at the Unpad Jatinangor campus on October 4, 2024. This initiative aligns with Unpad’s Core Academic Values (PIP) of “The Advancement in Law and Environmental Sustainability in National Development.”
“This is a form of innovation where we consistently implement our Scientific Principle Pattern. Unpad is committed to leading in environmental conservation by utilizing clean energy (PLTS) and a plastic bottle sorting machine,” said the Rector of Unpad.
Unpad is determined to remain a pioneer in environmental preservation in Indonesia. Thus, the establishment of the PLTS and Recycling Machine reflects the university’s commitment to supporting sustainability and ecological balance.
“Sustainability is one of our main focuses. We are committed to proactively safeguarding the environment, which has clear effects, namely environmental preservation, protection of endangered species, and effective water resource management, among other aspects,” the Rector added.
Meanwhile, the Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation at Unpad, Prof. Dr. Ir. Hendarmawan, M.Sc., stated that the PLTS represents a concrete implementation of green energy and a tangible effort to reduce carbon emissions.
“We want to demonstrate serious attention to the environment. With the installation of these facilities, Unpad can become an icon for the community, especially for institutions still relying on non-renewable energy sources,” emphasized Prof. Hendarmawan his speech.
The President Director of PT EMITS, Yovie Priadi, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in supporting the Eco Campus program at Unpad. “This program is indeed a necessity. We see significant potential for capacity enhancement within the Unpad campus area,” Yovie remarked.
Recycling Machine
In receiving the Recycling Machine from BCA, Dr. Teguh Husodo, M.Si., the Head of the Center for Safety, Security, and Environmental Order at Unpad, explained that the collaboration on plastic bottle sorting is a continuation of a program that has been ongoing for over ten years, although previously utilizing conventional mechanisms. With the new Recycling Machine, the sorting of plastic bottles will be significantly aided by modern technology.
“With this modern model, we hope to streamline waste sorting from the source, eliminating the need to handle waste at the endpoint. Thus, in the future, no plastic waste will enter the Unpad Temporary Waste Disposal Site (TPS),” Teguh explained.
Endang Sri Kuncorowati, Vice President of Institutional Relations at BCA, stated that unmanaged plastic waste could cause severe environmental pollution and disrupt the balance of ecosystems. Therefore, raising awareness about the importance of waste sorting is crucial, especially among the younger generation.
“Universitas Padjadjaran plays a role as a catalyst of social change towards fostering environmentally friendly habits and behaviors among youth,” Endang noted.
The collaboration between Unpad, PT Empat Mitra Indika Tenaga Surya, and PT Bank Central Asia Tbk demonstrates Unpad’s commitment to implementing clean energy solutions and more effective waste management. Through this initiative, Unpad aims to create a better environment for future generations while raising awareness about the importance of sustainability within the community, particularly among the youth. (SA)*
